10 Summer Tips to Protect Fido this Summer

﻿Summer brings opportunities for family get-togethers, traveling, and soaking up some rays, but it's also a dangerous season for dogs. From parasites to water to fireworks, there's a lot of dangers that you need to be mindful of as a dog owner. Here are 10 tips to protect Fido this summer:

1). Avoid Heat Stroke Don't leave your dog unattended in a vehicle. Cars can heat up quickly even with the windows cracked. A muzzled dog will really have a difficult time trying to cool himself.

2). Prevent Parasites Consult with your veterinarian about parasite prevention. You may be able to ward off mosquitoes, worms and ticks with products like:

4). Love the Leash Your dog may be confused or scared by new locations and experiences. Keep his collar and leash on at all times, and keep identification tags on collars in case he sneaks off.

5.) Beware of Fireworks The booming sounds fireworks create may leave your dog anxious or aggressive, which is why it is important to keep Fido on a short leash, and make sure he doesn't mistake fireworks for toys.

6.) Prevent Paw Burns Your dog's paw pads are highly sensitive. They can burn on beach sand, cement, and asphalt. Take your dog for walks in the cooler early mornings or late evenings.

8.) Avoid Mushrooms Symptoms of mushroom poisoning include vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, and coma. If your dog ingests a mushroom, try to bring a piece of it or others like it in a plastic baggie to your vet's office for identification. Mushrooms can be deadly.

9.) Use Vests Your dog may be a great swimmer, but he can experience exhaustion. Keep a brightly colored safety vest on him in water.

10.) Beware of Blue-Green Algae Lakes and ponds with blue-green algae are toxic to dogs. Once Fido ingests the water, he could get severely sick.

Protect Fido this summer by following preventative measures. Leashes, ID tags, and other safety devices may be life-savers. Like you, your dog needs to stay cool, hydrated, and keep away from toxic products and areas so he can enjoy summer safely!